Permanent Vacation

by Apple_Crack


Over A Barrel or The Great Equestrian Train Robbery

“Permanent Vacation”

Over A Barrel or The Great Equestrian Train Robbery

A frantic knocking on my front door draws my attention. I leap off the couch before Scootaloo can react, yanking open the front door to find… Nobody. Pretty sure I heard somebody knocking.

“Sorry, might have been me. Really gotta hammer these nails into the walls.”

“Hey, Scootaloo? You heard that too, right?” I peek outside. Everybody that’s around is minding their own business, casually enjoying the fair weather today after rainstorms for two days now. There’s no panic, no screams, nothing that really screeches out emergency to me.

“If you’re talking about that knocking on the door, then yeah, I heard it. Who was it anyway?”

I shrug my shoulders. “No idea.” I start closing the front door, eager to get back to spending time with Scootaloo.

“Wait!” She pushes the door back open, and then bends down to pick up an envelope. “Whoever it was, they left this.” She starts breaking the seal on the envelope.

I catch on the front of the envelope a sticker shaped like a cupcake. There’s only two ponies I can think of that would leave an envelope with a cupcake sticker on my doorstep, and not stick around to make sure I got it. “Scootaloo, wait!”

“Huh?” But it’s too late. She breaks the seal, only for confetti to come flying out. A good deal of it sticks to her face and hair, but most of it drifts harmlessly to the ground outside. She stands there, still holding the envelope in her hands. I hear a snerk before she’s bursts out laughing, and I can’t help laughing with her.

After our laughter dies down, I gently take the envelope from her hands and pull out the letter inside. As she brushes the confetti off of her, I unfold the letter and start reading it out loud. “Congratulations! This is an official invite to the baby shower for Cup and Carrot Cake. I, Pinkie Pie, will be personally overseeing the entire celebration, but I mean, duh, that’s a given! It’s me, Pinkie Pie, we’re talking about here. Gifts are not required, but will be happily appreciated, especially if it’s something for the cute little foal! The shower starts tomorrow at ten sharp! No being fashionably late! And most importantly of all— Wait, she’s having the baby now?! But I haven’t even prepped anything yet! AAAAHHHHHH! From the party pony herself, Pinkie Pie.” She’s even stamped the letter with a circle with her face in the center, one arm reaching out to give a thumbs-up.

“The Cakes are having their foal now?”

I turn the letter over just to make sure there’s nothing on the other side before nodding my head. “Seems that way. Though why Pinkie kept writing that, and actually put it in the letter… Well, that’s beyond my understanding.”

“Yeah, don’t even get started on that. Don’t wanna have to smack some sense into you. Nice imitation of Pinkie yelling, by the way. I couldn’t even tell the difference.”

I raise an eyebrow. “I didn’t do any imitation of her.”

I hear Pinkie scream, causing Scootaloo and I to turn to the source. Pinkie’s running down the road with her arms flailing above her and carrying a satchel on her back. There’s a mare standing off to the side looking at Pinkie with wide eyes. Pinkie skids to a halt in front of the mare, reaches into the satchel, pulls out an envelope, hands it to the mare, and then resumes running back down the road screaming her head off.

The mare, for her part, is surprisingly calm after all that. She stares at Pinkie’s retreating form before shrugging it off. She breaks the seal on the envelope, only for a spray of confetti to fly out and stick to her. Scootaloo and I share a glance before we both start laughing again.


The baby shower turned celebration party for the healthy twins didn't turn out to be my cup of tea, but I showed up and delivered my gifts anyway, a bunch of toys ordered from the Canterlot branch of Barnyard Bargains (Still waiting for the Ponyville branch to open). It was a polite enough affair, but I politely excused myself at somepoint to head to the bar and celebrate with a glass to the proud new father. I honestly wasn’t surprised to see a fair number of ponies had the same idea as me. Pints were drunk, songs were sung, and a good time was had by all.

That… Was about two weeks ago. Since then, it’s been mostly hanging around, working on more music, and exercising. Pretty mundane stuff. So when I was approached by Applejack to help her relocate one of her trees to her relative’s orchard in Appleloosa, I happily accepted.

A private train was charted for this occasion, it being only a day’s ride to Appleloosa. It takes Applejack and Big Mac lifting with pure Earth pony strength, and I with my magic, working together to heft the relatively small tree into the private bunk in the very last train car. Not gonna question why a tree needs a private car…

Never one to turn down an outing, the Elements tag along as well. Once our luggage is loaded and goodbyes are said, the train rolls out from the station. Most of the ride is spent talking about Appleloosa itself, with Twilight making it super interesting with her history lessons, and about Applejack’s family. But all days must come to an end, so we turn in for the night… Well, some of us try to. Spike takes the passive route and decides to sleep in the private car. While that doesn’t convince anyone to quiet down, a quick toss of my pillow at the offenders’ heads surely ends it.


I’m awoken, quite rudely I’ll add, when my face impacts the floor. “Motherfucker!” I stand up, rubbing the stinging sensation from my face. I glance at the rest of the girls. Seems I wasn’t the only one who fell out of their bed, judging from Twilight and Rainbow’s positions on the floor. I help them both up. “You two alright?”

“Yeah, I’m fine.”

Twilight groans, but she seems otherwise unhurt. “I’ll be fine.”

“What in Equestria is going on out there?!” Nobody has any time to respond before something slams into the car, causing those of us still standing to scramble to maintain our balance.

“Whatever it is, it certainly doesn’t sound friendly!” Rarity grips the edge of her bed in what I can only assume is a white knuckle death grip.

I yank open the curtains, letting more sunshine in. Outside, a herd of buffalo wearing feathered headdress, what I can only call furred armor, and paint markings on their faces are running alongside the train. Its nearly impossible to tell how many just because of how much dust is being kicked up. One of them swings away from the train before swinging back towards it. “Brace yourselves!” The buffalo jumps and slams into the train, rocking it once more. “Everybody still good?!” I ask after the rocking subsides, receiving nothing but positive responses.

“What’s going on out there?”

“A herd of buffalo! Looks like they’re trying to derail the train!” I see another buffalo start swinging away from the train. Not on my watch. With my left hand, I open up the window while drawing the Diamondback in my right. As the buffalo starts swinging back, I take aim at the ground beside it. The shot is enough to disrupt the charge as the buffalo stumbles, but maintains its footing. All eyes look to me. “What the hell is your problem?! There's people in this car!” The buffalo doesn't respond, instead opting to retreat back to it's herd.

“What? Why would they be doing that?”

I lean back in. “Gee, Twilight, I don't know. Maybe you can ask them after they derail the train!”

Something slams on the roof and starts moving across it, heading towards the rear of the train. Rainbow runs over to the other side of the car and opens the window, leaning out. Not sure what she's gonna see on top of the train from this angle... She leans back in. “Hey, we've got one of them on the roof! I got 'em!”

“Rainbow, wait!” But Rainbow is already out the window by the time the words leave my mouth.

“Just what in Equestria do these ruffians want?!”

“There's nothing worthwhile stealing here!” Applejack pauses for a moment. “Ya'll heard the hoofsteps heading towards the back of the train, right?”

“Yeppers! Though there's nothing really important in the next car, unless you count all those baking supplies I brought!”

I raise an eyebrow. I'd be more concerned with losing the only car with a restroom. “And the car after that has the tree...” Applejack and I eye each other before we rush towards the door. She reaches it first and slams it open, easily crossing the small gap between the cars. I'm right behind her though, Diamondback raised and ready to fire.

I can already tell we're too late as soon as I step into the next car, the small window in the door at the other end giving a clear view of the private car pulling away from us. Like before, Applejack reaches the door before me. “Dangnabbit! They're stealing mah tree!” I step beside her and watch as the car pulls away, a little buffalo on top watching us. With a grumble, I holster the Diamondback and gently pat Applejack’s shoulder.

Rainbow drops down from the roof to land beside us. “Dangit! She outmaneuvered me! Don't worry, I'll go after—”

“You'll do no such thing, Rainbow. Even if you manage to somehow subdue her, you got all those buffalo to deal with, and that's not even considering how you'd get the train car the rest of the way to Appleloosa.”

By now, everybody else has caught up to us. “Has anypony seen Spike?! I can't find him anywhere!”

“If he's not in the these two cars, that leaves just the locomotive at the front or...” I turn back around to watch the private car fading into the distance. “The private car that was just stolen by some buffalo.”

“Oh come on! You have to let me go after them now!”

“Rainbow, no. Heading headfirst into a situation like this without any plan is a good way to get someone hurt, or worse.”

“But... We gotta get Spike back!”

Applejack sighs and tips her hat down. “Ah don't like it either, Rainbow. But there's nothing we can do right now. We'll need to figure out a plan once we reach Appleloosa ta get mah tree and Spike back!”

As much as everybody hates to admit it, Applejack is right. We head back to our sleeping car and collectively spend a good portion of time just eating, getting properly dressed, and just... Being quiet. Pinkie impressed me the most, to be honest. Pretty sure she had a good enough reading of the room to understand that now is not the time for her usual joviality.

“Oh, I hope our darling little Spike is alright.”

“All alone, with nopony else around with those scary buffalo...” Fluttershy shivers.

I roll my eyes and turn my attention back to the book I'm reading, a history of Starswirl's major victories and triumphs across Equestria, and all he brought to the world of magic. From what I've read of him so far, I'd be honored if I could ever meet him. “I wouldn't be too concerned. Spike's smart and mature enough to take care of himself, and besides, I doubt they'd harm him.”

“What?! Those buffalo attacked the train! If they didn't want to harm anypony, they sure have a great way of showing it!”

I shake my head. “That's just it, Rainbow. They were attacking the train, trying to knock it off the track. But, I've been thinking...”

“You think they only attacked the train like that cause they thought nopony was on board.”

I smirk and close the book, turning my attention fully towards everyone else. “Exactly, Twilight. Once they realized that there was somebody on board, they went with what I can only assume is their second plan, detach the cars.”

“But, why just the private car? There's nothing worthwhile in there.”

“Other than mah tree!”

“Right, yes, that. The point is, why that one car?”

I shrug my shoulders. “Can't say. All I know is it has something to do with that tree. Spike being in the car was an unfortunate coincidence. I'm hoping someone in Appleloosa can tell us why one tree is so important to the buffalo.”

Pinkie gasps. “Wait just a minute! How'd they know which car to detach?!” We collectively look at each other, waiting for somebody to answer. Pinkie does bring up a valid point. “Eh, I have my moments.”

“I... Honestly got nothing.” I shake my head. “But this is all just speculation until we get to Appleloosa. Until then, I suggest we all rest up.” There's no objections, so I return to the chapter I left off, the tale of Starswirl's defeat of three creatures known as sirens.

I'm so engaged in reading that I don't notice the train pulling up to the station. “Alright ya'll, pack yer stuff quickly now.” Proper planning on all our parts means there's nothing really left to pack up, but what minor things that weren't are packed in short order.

By the time the train fully stops, we're already standing by the door. “Now, we should find mah cousin Braeburn. He'll know—” The train door is yanked open shortly before a hand reaches in that grabs Applejack and pulls her outside. The rest of us are quick to go after her.

Outside, a stallion wearing a stetson, leather vest over white undershirt, and faded blue jeans has pulled Applejack in a massive hug. He eventually lets her go. “Howdy, cousin!” He turns his attention to the rest of us. “And to everypony else, welcome to AAAAAAA-pple-LOO-sa!” I raise an eyebrow at how he drew that out. Makes ya wonder how many times he's had to say that.

Applejack can't help but smirk. “Everypony, this here's my cousin Braeburn. Braeburn, these are my friends Twilight, Pinkie, Rarity, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, and Blake.”

“Pleasure to meet ya'll!”

Applejack's furrows her brow and turns to Braeburn. “Brae, we need to talk about Bloomburg.”

“Why, ya only just got here and already talking work. Don't you fret, we'll unload him in a bit. Let me show ya'll around town instead!” Before anybody can stop him, he's already walking away.

“Braeburn!” Applejack sighs as Braeburn seems to ignore her.

With a shrug of my shoulders, I walk after Braeburn. I mostly tune him out and the rest of girls trying to get his attention, instead marveling at how... Authentic the town feels. Everything feels like it was ripped out of stories from the Old West, minus any modern firearms. I can't stop myself from feeling a sense of giddiness.

“Braeburn!” Applejack's shout snaps me out of my thoughts.

“Yes?” And it apparently snaps Braeburn out of his tour guide mode as well. I notice that we've reached a hill overlooking a massive apple orchard. Not nearly as impressive as Sweet Apple Acres, mind you.

“Ah've been trying to tell you that we don't have Bloomburg!”

His ears flatten against his head. “Oh... Did ya leave him behind?”

I roll my eyes. “Alright, listen. We were attacked on the way here by some buffalo that stole the train car carrying Bloomburg and a very close friend of ours. What's going on around here that warranted a train robbery for a tree?”

Braeburn hangs his head. “I was afraid this might happen.”

“You knew something like this would happen?” Twilight asks, Braeburn nodding his head in response.

“I was hoping your train would finally be the one they left alone.”

I raise an eyebrow. “This isn't the first time the trains have been attacked?”

He nods his head. “Look, we've been having an issue with the buffalo recently.”

“What kind of issue, dear?”

He sighs. “I think it's best we talk to the sheriff. Follow me.” He leads us back into town towards a building with a five pointed star hanging off a post right out front. He pushes open the door and steps in. “Sheriff Silverstar?! Got some folks here you need to talk to!” The rest of us file in behind Braeburn.

“I'll be right out. Make yourselves comfortable,” A gruff sounding voice yells back from behind one of the two closed doors against the back wall.

I casually lean by the wall and take stock of the place. Pretty classic three cell layout nestled against the right wall, with a desk a couple of feet away from them. There's also a hook hanging off the wall that currently holds a ring of keys, presumably for the jail cells. A bench that extends about halfway down the left wall allows visitors such as ourselves a place to sit, a commodity that a Rarity is quick to take up on.

One of the doors opens up, and out steps a stallion with a handlebar moustache wearing exactly the same things as Braeburn, baring the large duster. “Howdy folks, name's Silverstar. I'm the mayor of these here parts, and maintain the law as sheriff.”

“Ohh, so you're like a Meriff!” Pinkie says. I notice Braeburn and Silverstar flinch slightly.

“Mam, I'll ask you to refrain from using that word around here. The last sheriff used it, and folks didn't take to kindly to him.”

“Right, fine. Nopony use that word. Can we please get back ta why we're here?”

“Of course, of course.” Silverstar walks over to his desk and sits down. “Now, what seems to be the issue?”

“Sheriff... Or should I say mayor?”

“I prefer sheriff, but don't rightly mind if you want to use mayor. I know not every town's got a sheriff and some ponies prefer to stick to what they know.”

Twilight nods her head. “Sheriff, we were transporting a new apple tree to your orchards here when our train was attacked by a herd of buffalo.”

“Celestia above, that's the third one this week.” I raise an eyebrow. That confirms my suspicions about multiple attacks, but just how long has this been going on? Surely the town would have tried something by now, or word would have reached the princesses.

“Sheriff, ah hate to say this, but what in the fuck is going on around here?! Ah lost an apple tree because of this.” Wow, Applejack solely concerned for her apple tree. Who would have thought. Fluttershy is quick to come over and grab Applejacks arm, whispering something to her.

“I wish I knew, to tell ya the truth.”

“Then tell us what you do know, and start from the beginning.”

He looks at me. He pauses for a bit, before nodding his head. “As you may or may not know, we've recently started expanding our orchard to accommodate our growing settlement. Braeburn here's been in charge of it from the beginning, seeing as he's the only one with any actual farming experience.”

Braeburn allows himself a smile. “Yep, I started my farm here after learning all I could from Ma and Pa, so it makes sense to put me in charge.”

“Shortly after we started expanding more, our supply trains started to regularly get attacked. All reports say it was a herd of buffalo.” He sighs. “We haven't the faintest idea why though.”

“Haven't you tried tracking them down?” Rarity asks.

“We've tried, but they tend to just vanish after each attack.”

“Well, we gotta find them now! They've got Spike!”

Silverstar narrows his eyes and looks at Pinkie. “Mam, are you saying they've resorted to kidnapping now?”

Twilight's quick to shake her head. “No, sheriff. Spike was just in the train car with the tree when the buffalo stole it. It's merely a coincidence that he was there.”

The sheriff shakes his head. “Intentional or not, we gotta find your friend. We'll begin the search at dawn tomorrow.”

“Tomorrow?! We should be out there looking for them right now!”

“And I agree with you, mam, but heading out into the desert without being properly prepared is the fastest way to ensure ya stay there. We're gonna need time to prepare.”

Rainbow huffs and crosses her arms. “Fine.”

“Now, don't you worry. The sheriff's a honorable stallion, true to his word. He'll do everything he can to find your friend.”

“Come on, ya'll. Let's leave the sheriff alone.”

Once outside, Fluttershy asks the question that's likely on everyone's mind. “So, what do we do now?”

“Did anypony happen to grab our bags from the train station?” At nobody's answer, Twilight nods her head. “Thought so. I'll get them and drop them off at the inn for everypony.”

“Allow me to assist you, Twilight.”

“Thank you, Rarity. We all meet up here tomorrow morning to assist in the search?” Everyone responds in the affirmative.

As Twilight and Rarity head to the station, Applejack turns to Braeburn. “Mind showing me around your orchard?”

Braeburn smiles. “Why sure, cousin!” Him and Applejack walk off towards what I assume is the direction of the farm.

I sigh and stretch, feeling a few joints in my back crack. “I don't know about the rest of you, but I'm gonna wander on over to the saloon and relax for a bit.” I don't bother waiting for a response as I walk towards the building with the word saloon spelled out above it.

I can't help but smile at the large swinging doors as I push them open and step into the saloon proper. There's a slight creaking from the wood that draws a few eyes from a lone table my way, but I don't sense any hostility in them. I nod my head at them while looking around. Small bar along the left hand wall, ample seating, a table with a couple of stallions sitting around it playing a card game, stage and piano off to my right, and a second floor with more seating. I do my best to suppress the surge of giddiness I'm feeling. It's like I stepped into a time vortex!

I pull up a stool at the bar and eye the selection on display. The bartender wanders over, idly cleaning a glass. I spare a glance at her. Amber skin, white hair pulled up into a neat little bun, and a smile that could melt a man's heart. “Don't believe you and I have had the pleasure of meeting, stranger.” Ah, typical southern belle accent.

I smile and turn my attention to her. “Now what makes you think we haven't?”

“I know just about every face in town, and I ain't ever seen yours before. You ain't dressed for these parts either.” She sets the glass down and holds out her hand. “Briar Rose, owner of this fine establishment. And yes, this rose does have a few thorns.”

I grab her hand and shake it. “Blake Quinter. And I gotta ask, how'd someone like you come to own a saloon?”

“Honey, let's just say I'm a mean card shark. Now that we're acquainted, what can I get for you? Or are you here just to pass the time?”

“Both, actually. Jack on the rocks.”

She eyes me but nevertheless goes about getting my drink. “I'm never one to turn down a paying customer, but don't you think it's a little early to be going for the harder stuff?”

I nod my head. “Normally I'd agree, but I've had an exciting morning and a good drink or two would help take the edge off.”

She sets my drink on the counter. “Eight bits.” I reach into my pocket and fish out the bits for her. She turns around and deposits them in a register before turning back to me. “Well, sounds like there's a story there that I'm willing to hear.”

I take a sip of the drink. “Nah, I wouldn't want to distract you from your job.”

She laughs. “Honey, look around. This place is just a few cold bodies away from being called a graveyard.”

She does have a point, and I'm sure she's as bored as anybody can be. I shrug my shoulders. “Alright, you've talked me into it.” I smirk. “Not like you had to try hard anyway. Now let's see... Suppose I should start at yesterday. I was asked by a friend of mine to help her relocate one of her apple trees to the orchard here.”

Briar's eyes go wide. “This friend of yours wouldn't happen to be called Applejack?” At my nod, she smiles. “Why, Braeburn hasn't stopped talking about how she was sending one of her prized trees to our little section of Equestria.”

I smile. “I wouldn't be surprised. That boy seems enthusiastic about everything. But as I was saying, I was asked by Applejack to assist her in relocating the tree here.” I spend a good portion of time telling the rest of the story to Briar, leading all the way up to now. “And here we are now, drinking my tension away.” I finish, holding up the empty glass.

Briar's been quiet for far too long, and I notice that the smile that adorned her face is replaced with a frown. “Come with me, please.” She walks over to a door just to the left of the bar and motions for me to follow.

I raise an eyebrow, but walk around the bar after her anyways. On the other side of the door is a short hallway that has a door on the left or right. She leads me through the right door, which must be the storeroom if the crates of beer and alcohol are any indication. “Briar, is something wrong?”

She wrings her hands together and looks at everything but me.”I'm so sorry you and your friends got attacked by the buffalo, and now they have your friend.”

“Briar, what's there to be sorry about?”

“Because...” She sighs and finally looks me in the eye. “Because they never would have attacked the train if I didn't tell them what was on it.”

I eye the mare before me before smiling and walking over to a nearby crate and sitting down on it. I pat another crate beside it.

“You're not mad?”

I smile. “Why would I be? You had no way of knowing who, if anybody, was on the train. Now, sit down and tell me everything you know. You're the only one in this town who seems to know what's going on, and I wanna hear everything.”

She sits down on the crate and sighs. “I guess it's the least I could do. What do you wanna know?”

For starters, something to sate my curiosity. “How'd you meet the buffalo?”

She smiles. “About eight or so some odd years ago, I used to explore Equestria and study rare and exotic flora. My travels eventually led me to the deserts around here.” She sighs and shakes her head. “But I was a foolish mare, thinking I could handle the desert with what supplies I had. Everypony that was in Appleloosa at the time told me I was insane, or that I was asking for it heading out into the desert. But what did they know? I'd survived in harsher environments.”

“I'm still not sure how long I was out there, wandering around after losing my way and nearly dying of thirst. But for however long it was, it was long enough for the buffalo to find me and tend to me. As I spent time recovering with them, I started talking with them and partaking in their daily rituals. They were quite fond of telling the stories on their ancestors and the traditions they had, and were quite surprised at my interest in studying the flora in the area. They taught me everything they knew, and even showed me how to make some of their herbal remedies. In exchange, I told them stories of Equestria's past and shared some of my knowledge with them. Once I had fully recovered, I left the tribe on good terms and came back to Appleloosa.”

I raise an eyebrow. “And nobody questioned how you survived?”

She chuckles. “Oh, there were plenty of questions. But they never got the full story, if you get my meaning.”

I nod my head. So that explains why when this started happening, she wasn't suspect number one. Or, the townsfolk aren't questioning how the buffalo know which trains to hit. “So, you survived the desert thanks to the buffalo and somehow ended up running the saloon. But that doesn't explain why the buffalo are attacking the trains.”

She sighs. “Folks around here don't realize it, but the orchard is expanding into the buffalo's traditional stampeding grounds. Tradition is so deeply rooted into their culture that Appleloosa expanding into their land is viewed as an act of aggression. They figure that if the orchard is expanding onto their land, the only way to stop it is to prevent supplies from ever reaching the orchard.”

“So attacking the trains to disrupt the supply chain. It's a really effective strategy if done correctly. But how'd you get drafted as their informant?”

She smiles. “After all this time, they remember me. Late one night, I was visited by a young one from the tribe. She came with a request, to assist them by telling them which trains to hit and when.”

“Hold up. How'd they even know you lived in town?”

She chuckles. “Honey, they've been watching this town for a long time now, longer than I've been living here. Pretty sure they watched me move in, but never had a reason to talk. I reckon they even saw you and your friends roll into town.”

I nod my head. “I wouldn't doubt it, but please, continue.”

“Like I was saying, they wanted me to help them. I'm apparently a good friend in the tribe still.” She sighs. “I agreed on the condition that nopony got hurt, which as you know, is something they agreed to.”

“So why turn against the town? Why help the buffalo?”

“I'm not turning against the town. But I can't turn away the buffalo. This is their land too, and they're decent folk. And it's not like I can just ask the sheriff to let them have their land back. I want to see this town prosper as much as anypony else here, but not at the cost of the buffalo.”

I gently pat her back. “Hey, it's a noble thing you're trying to do. But did you ever try talking to the sheriff and getting him to see it from your point of view?”

She laughs for a bit, before actually paying attention to me. “You're serious, ain't you? Look around you, ponies in this area are highly territorial. If I go to the sheriff and tell him the buffalo should have their land, he'll spout nonsense about how Appleloosa worked for these lands and we ain't giving it up without a fight.” She sighs. “Look, in the end, I'm really sorry about what happened, but I ask that you tell nopony else about this. I love it here, and if anypony found out I've been helping the buffalo, they'd run me out of town for sure.”

“Then why even tell me all this if you're worried about somebody blabbing about it?”

“I figured you had a right to know, considering all the trouble I put you and your friends through.”

“Hey don't beat yourself up over this. It isn't your fault, and nobody got injured, so let's let bygones be bygones and move on.”

She raises an eyebrow. “That means you ain't telling anypony?” I nod my head, causing her to pull me into a hug. “Thanks so much for keeping my secret, sugar.”

I return the hug. “Anytime, Briar.” Once we pull apart, I motion for her to stay sitting. “But, I would like to meet this buffalo you've been talking to. Just to talk with her, nothing more.”

Briar bites her lower lip before sighing. “She is supposed to show up tonight, and I suppose I could introduce ya, but only if she's okay with it.”

“All I ask is a chance.” I stand up and hold my hand out to her. “Now, how's about we head back out front and grab a drink?”

She smiles and grabs my hand, standing up as well. “Whatever you want, it's on the house. And I won't take no for an answer.”

I follow her back to the bar, and am not surprised that nothing has changed. I sit back down in my previous seat while Briar moves back behind the bar. “What'll be this time?” She asks.

“Jack on the rocks again.” While she's making the drink, I glance once more at the stage and piano. Well, I did bring my guitar to pass the time... “Hey, Briar.” I jerk my head towards the stage. “Anyone allowed to play?”

“Sure are. If you're interested, I can let everypony in town know we got a performer. Won't let ya go on till later in the evening though”

I smile. “If you wouldn't mind, and that won't bother me.” Looks like I found something to occupy my evening.


After heading back to the inn and relaxing for a while, I went back to the saloon and quietly sat in the corner as folks filtered in. It's no surprise that the girls showed up as well, along with what I assume is a good portion of the town. I close my eyes and idly strum a few chords.

“Well, looks like you found something interesting to do.”

I open one eye and smile at Twilight. “That I did. I usually find bars or similar locales great places to pass the time.” Or find information... “Regardless, something I can help you with, Twilight?”

“Oh, nothing, just came over to talk.”

I chuckle. “Well, talk away then. You manage to find out anything else about the buffalo?”

She shakes her head. “Nothing more than what we already know. Have you had any luck?”

I shake my head. “Not much, I'm afraid.”

She sighs. “Oh well. Anyway, put on a good show tonight. The girls and I will be cheering you on.”

I smirk. “And partaking in some fine beverages?”

I catch the blush on her face as she turns away. “Maybe one or two...” I can't help the snicker that escapes my lips.

I glance at the clock hanging from the wall, seeing that it's almost eight. There's a loud, shrill whistle that instantly quiets everyone. “Alright folks!” I look towards Briar on stage. That whistle must have come from her. “We got a special entertainer for you tonight! Hailing from the distant town of Ponyville, we've got one Blake Quinter for ya! Give him a wholesome Appleloosa welcome now!”

Everyone cheers as I smile and wave while making my way towards the stage. I climb onstage and sit down in the provided chair. Once everyone quiets down, I speak. “Before we begin, I'd like to thank you all for providing nothing but genuine hospitality to my friends and I, and for Briar for allowing me to perform for ya'll. Let's give her a round of applause, alright?” Briar waves it off as we clap for her.

Once that dies down, I continue. “Normally, I'd have my band with me, but since they aren't here, I gotta make due with myself, my trusty guitar, and whatever latent music magic Equestria has. Let's start it off with something simple and slow that I've been cooking up for a few days now.”

The place goes quiet while I adjust the guitar in my grip. I take a deep breath and let it out before strumming.

The crowd claps and cheers once I finish. Once they die down, I stand up and tune the guitar. “Now, I think ya'll came here to party, and what's a good party without some fitting music?” The crowd cheers, prompting me to smile and start strumming. “Now, clap along if ya like.”

Once again, the crowd cheers as those that actually took to the floor to dance head back to their seats. I take a bow. “I believe that was my time, but I might be convinced to play another song for ya'll if you want...” There's cheers and whistles from the crowd, some even shouting at me to keep going. “Well, I can't say no now, can I? Alright, one more for everyone here. Let’s kick this party up a notch.”

I step offstage to the applause of the crowd and make my way to the bar, stopping to shake hands along the way. Without a word, Briar's sliding another Jack on the rocks my way. I nod my thanks and start drinking it.

“Hoo wee! Ya'll start coming up with more country songs, we might just have ta book ya for the Apple Family Reunion!

I turn around in my seat and smile at Applejack. “Don't get too excited now. That was just me experimenting with something new.”

“Experimenting or not, it'd make the reunion a right hoedown with that kind of music!”

I shrug my shoulders. “Talk with Vinyl then. It'd be up to her to schedule us and work out the finer details.”

“Alrighty then. Why don't ya come sit and chat with us? We got ya a spot saved and everything.”

“Sure, I'll be—”

“Blake, would ya mind helping me out?”

I glance at Briar. She jerks her head towards the door back to the storeroom. “Sure thing, Briar.” I look back at Applejack. “Tell the girls I'll be over as soon as I can. Here,” I hand Applejack my drink, “Keep an eye on this, will ya?”

I follow Briar into the back. Right before she gets to the storeroom door, she places a hand on my chest. “Wait right here.” I'm not sure how long she's in there before the door finally opens and Briar motions for me to come in. Stepping inside, I see the little buffalo that was on top of the private car standing close to an open window. “Blake, this is Little Strongheart. Little Strongheart, this is Blake.”

“Pleasure to make your acquaintance.”

“Likewise. Briar said you wanted to talk, so talk fast.”

“Alright. Spike, the dragon. Is he alright?”

She nods her head. “Not a scale has been harmed on his head. On behalf of my tribe, we do apologize for taking you friend. He'll be returned safely to here tomorrow.”

“Second, the attacks on the trains. Briar told me why.”

Strongheart raises an eyebrow. “Then you should understand why they get attacked.”

I nod my head. “I do. But I can't just watch a town slowly die because of some miscommunication.”

Strongheart bites her lip before sighing. “All clans or tribes should have a chance to flourish and grow, so that the stories they create can be passed down from generation to generation. But, our land was intruded upon, and we cannot just sit by and watch it disappear.”

At least she can concede on seeing Appleloosa flourish. “Then make an effort to talk to the Appleloosan's. You bring your chief or leader, and I'll convince the sheriff and the owner of the farm to talk with you. We'll meet on the northern edge of town at dawn and have a nice discussion.” At her silence, I continue. “Tradition is what makes your tribe yours, and I can get that. I'm the last of my tribe, species, kind, whatever term you want to use. I gotta keep my traditions alive, even if that means slightly altering them. But as long as I can keep even a shred of a single tradition, it's enough to pass on to others so that they can keep it alive for me.”

She sighs. “I shall ask my father to meet with you, but I make no promises if he will agree to do so.”

“Please, do your best to convince him. All I'm asking for is a chance to prevent harm from coming to anyone, or to these lands.”

She nods her head and climbs out the window. I lean out and watch her run off into the distance.

“I sure hope you know what you're doing.”

“As do I, Briar. As do I.”


The next morning, I had woken up at least a half hour before dawn to prep for the meeting. Briar was gracious enough to allow me to use one of her square tables and a few chairs. So, I grabbed one of the tables and six chairs in my magic and headed towards the northern edge of town. Once I was about halfway towards a hill, I set up everything and headed back into town.

Those who were part of the sheriffs posse were already forming in front of his office, the girls and Braeburn included. However... “Where's Rainbow and Pinkie?”

“You mean they weren't with you?” Twilight asks.

“Um, they were both still in the saloon when I saw them last night.”

“Did anybody see them after that?” Everyone answers in the negative, causing me to groan. “I'll bet anything that Rainbow was too impatient to wait till today and decided to find the buffalo herself, and Pinkie tagged along because it probably seemed fun to her.”

“Don't that mare listen to anypony other than herself? The sheriff told us it was dangerous to go out there unprepared, and what does she go and do?!”

I sigh. “Whatever, we'll find them.” Deciding to switch topics, I turn to Braeburn. “Braeburn, you got that pie I asked for?” I had asked Braeburn last night to have an apple pie made with fresh picked apples from the orchard ready for me this morning.

“Right here, though I ain't rightly sure what good a pie is gonna do us out there.”

“Oh, it'll have its use. Trust me on this one.”

The door to the sheriffs office opens, and out comes Silverstar himself. “Alright folks, we got a lot of ground to cover and only so much time—”

“Call off the search, sheriff. I know exactly where the buffalo are heading next.”

The sheriff raises an eyebrow. “And how in Celestia's name do you know that?”

I chuckle. “I have my ways, sheriff.”

He nods his head and crosses his arms. “That so? And where exactly are the buffalo going?”

“Oh, that's easy. I invited them here.”

“You did what?!”

I rub my ear. “Geez, Twilight, no need to yell. You all heard me anyway.”

“Son, are you insane?”

I shake my head. “Nope, just practical.”

“I should throw you into a cell!”

“Now sheriff, I'm sure Blake had a good reason for doing what he did. Ain't that right?”

I nod my head at Braeburn. At least he's being level headed. “Correct. You, Silverstar, and I are meeting with the head of the buffalo tribe and his daughter at the edge of town to talk out the issues you've been having lately.”

Braeburn nods his head. “Sheriff, I think we should at least hear them out. They already agreed to talk with us, so they're at least willing to try.”

Silverstar closes his eyes and strokes his mustache. After some time, he sighs. “Alright, fine. But they so much as suggest attacking Appleloosa next, we're done talking.”

“Now hold on a minute! Ya'll ain't going out there without us! These buffalo not only got our friends, but they're also threatening the life the Appleloosans carved out!”

“And that is precisely why I'm not letting anybody else as part of these talks. You only know the one side, and are only willing to hear that side.”

“But—”

“No means no, Applejack. Do not attempt to sway me.” I eye everybody else. “The same goes for the rest of you. Anyone tries to interject themselves as part of this meeting will have to personally go through me.” At their silence, I motion for Braeburn and Silverstar to follow.

“Should I bring the pie?”

I sigh. “Yes, bring the pie with, Braeburn.” I lead them both out to the table and chairs, and instruct them to sit down with their backs facing Appleloosa.

It's not long after that I hear a faint rumble that grows in sound, clearly coming across as the sound of thundering hooves in a stampede. The dust cloud they kick up is thick enough to obscure the sky behind them as they come to a stop on the hill. From my count, there's about twenty or so of them. Rainbow comes flying over the hill right after, Spike clinging tightly to her, while Pinkie merrily bounces down the hill. Rainbow skids to a halt by the table, kicking up her own cloud of dust.

I shake my head. “You alright, Spike?”

“Yeah, I'm fine. Those buffalo are pretty nice once you get to know them.”

“Hey, what about Pinkie and I?”

“Lighten up, Rainbow Dash. We're perfectly fine thanks to our new Buffalo friends!” Pinkie gasps. “I gotta start planning the party!” She runs into town, a dust cloud in her wake.

I jerk my head towards town. “Get back in town. We'll talk about your actions later.”

She shakes her head. “No way! I heard you were gonna talk things out with the buffalo, and everypony needs to hear their side in this! The buffalo are right!”

I glare at her. “Rainbow, get into town right now. We'll handle this. You don't need to speak for the buffalo.”

“But—”

I heard enough. I teleport her and Spike into town.

Two of the buffalo come down the hill, one wearing a large feathered headdress and the other easily recognizable as Little Strongheart.

I spare the briefest of glances at Braeburn and catch a faint blush on his cheeks. As the buffalo reach the table, I bow before them. “Please, have a seat.” Strongheart takes a chair across from Braeburn while the other buffalo elects to keep standing. I take my seat at the table, directly at the center.

Out of the corner of my eye, I catch Rainbow flying towards us. With a sigh, I throw up a protective dome that prevents anyone from getting in as long as the caster can maintain it. There's a light thump as Rainbow crashes into it and slumps to the ground. I glare at her as she sulks back to Appleloosa. “Now then, shall we get to business?”

A little over an hour later...

I almost didn't think I'd be able to pull off this negotiation, but lo and behold, I managed it. I thought for sure there was still gonna be a war on our hands since Silverstar and Thunderhooves seemed to argue endlessly, neither of them willing to concede anything. But thankfully, without being over spoken by Applejack and Rainbow, Braeburn and Strongheart were able to speak their piece, reigning in Silverstar and Thunderhooves and getting them to listen and eventually agree to a suitable arrangement. In exchange for a path through the orchard and some pies made with the fruits from it, the buffalo would allow the orchard to remain and would share some of their cultivating techniques.

I slide the pie Braeburn brought with towards Thunderhooves. “And here is the first of many pies to come. I'd like to thank you, all of you, for agreeing to these talks and coming to a suitable arrangement.”

“It is us who should be thanking you. On behalf of my people, we thank you for giving us the opportunity to be heard and for bringing an end to our struggle.”

Silverstar chuckles. “I reckon everypony will feel the same way. And if'n they don't, well, they're welcome to leave anytime they want.”

I smile. “Then I believe we should head into Appleloosa, ponies and buffalo, as one to announce the news to all.” I dispel the dome and pick up the table and chairs with magic. Thunderhooves stamps the ground twice, the buffalo that came with coming up to stand behind him, as we begin walking back towards Appleloosa.

I hang back with Braeburn and Strongheart. “Ah can't thank you enough for what you did, Blake.”

“Think nothing of it, Braeburn. Sometimes it helps to keep an open heart and mind about the wants and needs of others.”

Stronghearts shakes her head. “And it shows. There's not many who would've listened to us after what we were doing, let alone understand why.”

I look at Strongheart. “And I empathize with you. Remember what I said yesterday.” She pats me on the back.

As we get into the town, ponies peek their heads out from wherever they're hiding. “Alright folks, listen up! We've come to an agreement with the buffalo!” There's murmurs as ponies slowly come out from hiding and onto the street proper. The girls and Spike are quick to join Braeburn, Strongheart, and I.

“You're sheriff is right, ponies. We come not as enemies, but as friends. We have agreed to let the orchard remain and to share some of our knowledge for farming in this land.”

There some cheering from the ponies, and I catch Applejack's grin, but Silverstar is quick to calm them down. “Now hold on there, we ain't finished. We're making a path for them through the orchard and sharing some of the food we harvest too. I expect everypony to treat 'em with some genuine Appleloosa hospitality.” A small cheer goes up from everyone.

Braeburn, Silverstar, Thunderhooves, and Strongheart, along with a couple of ponies and buffalo, head towards the direction of the orchard while the remaining ponies and buffalo start mingling. “How in Equestria did you manage to broker a peace between Appleloosa and the buffalo?”

I smirk and cross my arms. “Simple, Twilight. I listened to the voices of those who wanted to be heard, distanced myself from my personal beliefs, and heard both sides of the argument before making any judgment calls.” I shoot a glare at Applejack and Rainbow.

“Hey, at least everything worked out in the end right? The buffalo got some land to stampede through.”

“An Appleloosa get ta keep it's orchard.”

“And nopony got hurt in the end.”

“Aw, where's everypony going? I had this whole song and dance routine set up!” I have to do a double take at the saloon girl outfit Pinkie is wearing.

“And taking a picture of that!” I catch Pinkie's wink at me. Eh...

“Blake!” Oh thank God for Briar's timely arrival. “Here, let me help ya set these back up in the saloon.”

I shake my head and start walking towards the saloon. “Nah, just tell me where ya want everything and I'll take care of it.” I look over my shoulder. “I'll catch all of you in a bit.”

Briar and I step into the saloon. She walks over to an empty space on the floor. “Set 'em right down here.”

I set down everything where she indicated. “I gotta thank you for allowing the use of your tables and chairs.”

She chuckles. “Think nothing of it. If anything, it should be I thanking you.”

I smirk and roll my eyes. “Don't mention it.”

“Now, I don't feel right just letting you walk out of here after everything you did, so...” She walks behind the bar and pulls out a bottle and two shot glasses, “You and I are gonna drink till we drop. And just so you know, I ain't no frail little rose when it comes to drinking. And I closed the saloon for the day.”

Damn, she's serious, but I'm game. I walk over and take the bottle from her hands. It's a brand I've never seen before. “Rosebud Whiskey. Watch out for the thorns. Never heard of it before.”

She chuckles. “Not surprising since not everypony can afford a bottle of this. I've been saving this for a special occasion, and I think this qualifies as one. You in, or am I gonna have to drink this all by myself?”

I eye the bottle, and then Briar. I can see the metaphorical light bulb go off in my head. “Actually, that was me. Turned on the wrong light. Man, that one is really dull. Should get it replaced soon.”

I smirk. “I'm in, but on one condition.”

“Name it, sugar.”

I glance around to make sure nobody else is here, but the place is as dead as when we arrived. I move closer to her and drop my voice. “It's safe to say you're one of the best informed people in this town, correct?”

“Well, I wouldn't say that...”

“Nonsense. You somehow got the info about what's on each train, you knew about Applejack before she even arrived, and you successfully supplied info to the buffalo in secret. You have the making of a information broker, and I'm looking to expand my network.”

She raises an eyebrow. “What exactly are you asking?”

“I'm asking for a mutual partnership here. I ask for information, you get it to me anyway you can. In return, I can help... Supplement your income, shall we say.

She eyes me for a moment. “Suppose I agree. This ain't nothing that's gonna get us in hot water?”

I shake my head. “Far from it. You'd be doing a service to Equestria.”

“And what information would you be looking for?”

I shrug my shoulders. “Could be anything, really. Won't know till I need it.”

“...If all your asking for is information from time to time, and I get a little extra bits thrown my way, well, I'd be plum crazy to pass up a deal like that.”

I smile. “Then it's settled. I think we should celebrate with a drink.”

She smiles and pours a generous amount into both glasses. She raises hers up. “To friends and partnership.”

I grab my glass and raise it up. “Hear hear.” We clink the glasses and down our shots. Her glass hits the counter before I've even finished mine. I smack my lips as I set the glass on the counter. “Hmm... it's surprisingly weak for a whiskey, and with a slightly sweet tang to it. Goes down real smooth. I won't deny that it's good, but I like my whiskey with a bit more of a kick, ya know?”

Briar laughs. “Well, as they say, every rose has it's thorn, sugarcube.”

“Yeah, I'm well acquainted with the—” I erupt into a coughing fit as a burning sensation wracks my throat. It feels like someone dragging a claw down the inside of it, intending to rip and tear as much as they can with no regards to precision. I steady myself with a hand on the counter while doubling over. I can hear Briar laughing over my coughs.

“Got enough of a kick for ya?”

The pain subsides enough for me to stand up straight and wipe the tears from my eyes. “How the hell are you not in pain?!”

“Years of practice. And you still ain't answered my question.” I grab the bottle from her, pour another shot, and down that. “I'll take that as a yes.”

I pant, the liquid providing temporary relief from the burn. “You damn well better. Less talk, more drink.” I double over once more and erupt into another coughing fit.

“Everypony around here has their own unique way of saying it,” I hear a glass hit the counter, “And this here's mine. Welcome to Appleloosa.”

I can't help myself from laughing in between the coughs. I need to visit here more often and talk to the other residents, if Briar is any indication of the rest of them.